Batik

Batik is a beautiful method of dying that can produce large abstract designs or intricate pictures that tell a story.

Traditionally, beeswax and Paraffin are combinedfor various effects. Beeswax on it's is very flexible and doesn't crack. In order to achieve a cracked look, the signature of Batik, the following blends of beeswax and paraffin are used:

More Paraffin: If you enjoy the crackling lines of batik, consider adding more paraffin than beeswax to your mix. 2 parts paraffin to 1 part beeswax. When using this mixture, make sure that the wax is penetrating all the way through the fabric.

Equal Parts: Combine equal parts of paraffin and beeswax to get good absorption into your fabric without losing the spontaneous lines of the crackling paraffin. This is great for stamping fabric with batik wax.

More Beeswax: If you are into making large definable shapes with your wax, mix 2 parts beeswax to 1 part paraffin.

Beeswax Only: Use beeswax by itself if you are intending to make very precise lines, letters and shapes. Keep in mind that you're going to loose some of the charm of batik without the crackling lines. This is most useful if you are intending to dye the fabric several times and add in crackle later.

A new trend is to use microwavable soy wax. Soy wax heats at a lower temperature than the beeswax/paraffin mix, and is much easier to wash out after dying. Users have cited that the soy wax is great for both crackled and smooth designs without the fumes produced. To find out more about soy wax and batik, click here.